Overview

• The Big Butterfly Count recorded its lowest numbers in its 14-year history, with an average of just seven butterflies per count.
• Over 9,000 counts reported no butterflies at all, the highest in the survey's history.
• A wet spring and cool summer, combined with long-term habitat loss and pesticide use, are cited as key factors in the decline.
• Butterfly Conservation is calling for a ban on neonicotinoid pesticides and for the government to declare a 'nature emergency.'
• Butterflies are considered a key indicator species, signaling broader environmental health issues.